An infant school described as "one big family" has been praised by an Ofsted inspector for its welcoming nature and support for children learning to speak English.

Co-op Academy Northwood was found to have maintained its good standards during its latest inspection.

The report was published earlier this month, following the inspection in July. It said: "Northwood is a school that welcomes everyone with open arms into what is typically described as 'one big family'.

"Many pupils join the school part way through a school year, and some are in the early stages of speaking English. Everyone looks after each other and there is ambition for what pupils can achieve.

"Most pupils achieve well in the majority of subjects across the curriculum. The school supports pupils effectively as they move on to junior school; as a result, pupils are ready for the next stage in their education.

"The school sets very high expectations for how pupils should behave. Pupils behave exceptionally well – they are incredibly respectful and kind towards each other."

Staff were praised for their knowledge and teaching of the curriculum. But in a few subjects, the report said, some pupils did not know and understand important concepts and knowledge that had been taught previously.

The report said: "This creates gaps in their understanding and limits how well they deepen their knowledge over time. The school should ensure that staff identify and address these gaps in these subjects, so that pupils can build securely on what they have previously learned."

Work to develop children's speech, language and vocabulary effectively was highlighted however, alongside work to help those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The report said: "The needs of pupils with SEND are accurately checked on (and) the school carefully selects the most effective ways to support individual pupils.

"From the very beginning, staff carefully check if children need additional support. Staff provide high-quality, targeted language support for some children; this successfully supports children who are in the early stages of learning to speak English.

"The school makes sure that pupils know and understand about fundamental British values (and) it teaches pupils to be tolerant towards the beliefs of others.

"Pupils are encouraged to take on a leadership role, such as school councillor and attendance champion – attendance champions, alongside staff, help to meet and greet pupils as they arrive at school, helping them to start the day well."

Headteacher Yvonne Glaister said: "I am delighted that the hard work, dedication and passion by all staff members within the academy has resulted in us maintaining the standards of the last inspection.

"Staff build strong relationships with the children and work closely with each other creating a positive, friendly atmosphere within the academy.

"The children make me so proud every day with their willingness to learn and commitment to doing the best they can. They follow the very high behaviour expectations, and in doing that, they ensure that Co-op Academies Trust values shine through.

"Our curriculum is ambitious and we provide a variety of extra-curricular activities to suit all. Overall, Co-op Academy Northwood is an extremely special school with a magical atmosphere where children thrive."